Reds could need 3 new bullpen arms

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GOODYEAR, Ariz. - The Reds could very well start the season with three pitchers in the bullpen who were not in the original plans.

Mat Latos (knee, elbow), Jonathan Broxton (elbow) and Sean Marshall (shoulder) are all dealing with injuries. Latos is the most likely to be ready, followed by Broxton. The Reds have all but given up on trying to have Marshall ready on Opening Day.

"Marshall is further away from game activity," Price said. "Right now, we're still optimistic that Mat could be ready to pitch, basically as the fifth starter just for timing reasons. Broxton and Marshall, (it's) probably unlikely. But we're not going to put the kibosh on Broxton until we let him get out and pitch and see how he recovers."

Latos will throw to live hitters later this afternoon. If that goes well, he could start Monday's game against Cleveland. Broxton is slated to pitch an inning in that game. Marshall is throwing a bullpen today - his first time off the mound in eight days.

The Reds won't rush to get any of three ready.

"We don't put anyone on speed-up rules and not start the season, not just healthy, but ready to handle rigors of what we ask them to do," Price said. "If it's Latos, it's being able to go and throw 90 to 100 pitches. If it's Broxton and Marshall, they've got to be able to do what the other guys are doing -- pitching back-to-back games and have the durability necessary to help us."

The Reds will continue to start Alfredo Simon as back-up plan if Latos is not ready.

"I'm optimistic that Mat will be ready, but if he's not that's the reason Freddie's been doing what (he's been) doing," Price said. "He's been doing a terrific job. He'd love to start. But we like our rotation intact if they're all ready. And we like having Freddie in our bullpen. That being said, if we need a starter, he's certainly pitched his tail off and deserves that chance."

If Simon is needed as a starter, the Reds would need three extra arms in the bullpen. Price mentioned right-handers Pedro Beato, Jose Diaz, Nick Christiani and Trevor Bell and left-hander Lee Hyde as candidates to make the club if any of three aren't ready.

"There have been some guys who have thrown the ball well for us and have opened up some eyes," Price said. "Beato has been terrific. Nick Christiani, I feel like this is really his year to make a statement as a major league pitcher. He's capable. . . Trevor Bell has taken to the bullpen. He comes out aggressive with good stuff. Jumbo Diaz has been terrific as well. Lee Hyde has thrown the ball well as a lefty option.